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Can Your Business Benefit from the WOTC?
Employers who hire new workers may qualify for a tax benefit, but they shouldn’t wait too long. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a valuable federal tax credit that incentivizes employers to hire from certain targeted groups that face employment barriers. But it will expire after 2025 unless Congress acts to extend it.
Targeted groups include qualified veterans, recipients of certain aid programs, ex-felons and qualified long-term unemployment recipients. Employers must file a form with their state workforce agency to prescreen and certify individuals they wish to hire.
Say Goodbye to Paper Checks
Beginning Sept. 30, 2025, the federal government will generally no longer issue paper checks, including those for tax refunds, Social Security benefits and more. Also, certain federal agencies, such as the IRS and the Dept. of Labor (DOL), will generally stop accepting payments by paper check. This is part of a program to modernize payments, improve efficiency in processing payments and reduce administrative burdens. Historically, the government stated that checks issued by the Dept. of the Treasury are more likely to be lost, stolen or subject to other forms of fraud.
The IRS will publish detailed guidance for 2025 tax returns before the 2026 filing season begins. Until further notice, taxpayers should continue using existing forms and procedures, including those filing their 2024 returns on extension of a due date prior to Dec. 31, 2025. Contact the office with questions.
Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts for Your Business
Employers seeking to offer family-friendly benefits may want to consider flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for dependent care. These FSAs let employees make pre-tax contributions through payroll withholding to help cover eligible expenses. Because of the major tax bill enacted on July 4, 2025, the annual contribution limit, currently $5,000, will rise to $7,500 in 2026.
FSA contributions reduce employees’ income tax and payroll tax and employers’ payroll tax. Withdrawals used to pay qualified expenses are tax-free. These include expenses for care for a child under age 13 or another dependent unable to care for themselves due to physical or mental limitations. Contact the office with questions.
